Paschal Mooney (Fianna Fail)

Issues have been addressed in this debate and Sinn Féin has put down an amendment. It is interesting that several bodies and institutions which represent the aged seem to have a very serious problem with the issue. There is also the problem of the gap year going forward. Perhaps the Government should consider contracts entered into by employers insisting that people leave at 65 years of age. I assume such a figure was used because it tallied with the existing retirement age of 65. Such matters must be addressed and it is unfortunate that with the time available it seems we will not get to other important elements of the Bill. I know the Minister would like to have clarified such matters.